Surrey Brothers Run Double Marathon for Mental Health Charity
Local Route Connects Surrey Communities from Weybridge to London
This Saturday and Sunday, 84 runners will tackle an ambitious double marathon course that starts in Weybridge and winds through some of Surrey's most recognisable stretches before reaching Fulham in West London. The return journey on Sunday completes the 52-mile challenge that has become a signature endurance event for The Hunchman Trust.
For residents across Woking, Guildford, Dorking, and surrounding villages, this event represents more than just a running challenge—it's become a touchstone for community resilience. The route passes through areas where many locals live, work, and gather, making this year's RunHunchmanRun genuinely personal to our region.
The three Smith brothers—Charlie, Ben, and Will—created this annual spectacle following their father Julian's death in 2010. What began as a private grieving process has evolved into one of Surrey's most inspiring community initiatives. Each year, the route remains carefully chosen to honour their father's memory whilst bringing together people from across our neighbourhoods who share a commitment to supporting those affected by mental health challenges and suicide prevention.
From Fetcham to Somerset: One Brother's Extraordinary Journey
Charlie Smith's personal commitment to the charity extends far beyond this weekend's double marathon. His dedication has seen him undertake remarkable physical challenges that have captured both local and national attention. Most recently, Charlie achieved a world record by running 53 kilometres as his bowling run-up in a cricket match—an extraordinary feat that demonstrates the creative ways the brothers are keeping their father's legacy alive.
Previously, Charlie ran from his father's former home in Fetcham all the way to Somerset, where Julian's ashes were scattered, before cycling the entire route back with friend Chester Allen. These personal expeditions have helped generate awareness and funds for The Hunchman Trust whilst inspiring countless others in our Surrey communities.
The brothers' approach to fundraising goes beyond traditional charity models. Ben explains that endurance challenges create something powerful: “There's something about shared struggle that builds community stronger than meeting at the pub.” For local residents, whether participating directly or following the brothers' journey, these events offer tangible proof that collective action and support networks genuinely save lives and strengthen neighbourhoods.
Growing Community Response: What Locals Can Do Now
The scale of this year's event speaks volumes about local engagement. With 84 runners participating—up from 56 last year—momentum continues building across Surrey. Last year's double marathon raised £139,000, bringing The Hunchman Trust's total fundraising to approximately £345,000 since its founding.
For residents in Woking, Guildford, Dorking, East Horsley, Horsley, and surrounding areas, there are multiple ways to support this vital cause. Beyond participating in future events, locals can donate to the trust, volunteer along the route, or simply share awareness within their own networks about the resources available for those struggling with mental health challenges.
Ben's message resonates particularly strongly in our close-knit Surrey communities: “Getting through something as a team together makes everything so much easier to deal with.” The Hunchman Trust now operates as proof that our region understands the value of collective support. Whether you're a local business wanting to sponsor future initiatives, a resident interested in joining next year's run, or someone who'd benefit from their support services, this weekend's event represents an opportunity to engage with something genuinely transformative happening right here in our neighbourhoods. Visit The Hunchman Trust website for more information on how to get involved.
Source: Surrey brothers to complete double marathon in memory of father
